Preparing for Life Events

Disaster Planning

After the Storm

While most tips are geared toward preparing you and your family before the storm, here are some guidelines to help you after the storm.

• Remain where you are until the official “All Clear” notification is given by local emergency management officials.

• Use your battery-operated radio at home to monitor conditions and receive the latest instructions.

• If you are returning home following a hurricane, be aware that travel times will be long and roadways may be hazardous.

• Assess immediate family needs.

• Assess immediate hazards and conditions in your area.

• Assess damage to your house and property, recording and photographing when possible to protect your assets.

Observe safety measures such as:

- Use gas and charcoal grills outdoors only, as they can cause fires and produce deadly carbon monoxide gas.

- After power is restored, leave the main circuit breaker off until water has receded.

- Do not turn on appliances which are damp or wet.

- Leave air conditioner off until power has stabilized.

- Use extreme care with chain saws and generators.

- Avoid downed wires and debris which can cause injury.

- Follow boil water directives, purify as necessary, and use only uncontaminated water for drinking, brushing teeth, and cleaning contact lenses.

- Coordinate with insurance agents and city officials for permanent repairs.